Probation service 'must improve'

PROBATION services in the North East have received an overall rating of 'requires improvement,' after a regional inspection.

- By OWEN YOUNGER

The assessment, conducted by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Probation, has found that local issues reflect the wider national picture.

Martin Jones, Chief Inspector of Probation, said: "We found encouraging work to engage people on probation and promote desistance across the region, which were amongst the best seen across probation regions so far.

"Leaders had strong relationships with key partners and their efforts to ensure the North East was a good place to work was having a positive impact. Staff we met were highly motivated and committed to delivering the best possible service.